This archive report was first published on 17 June 2020.
Kenyan RnB artist Otile Brown's life has been a testament to resilience and determination. Born Jacob Obunga, Otile's journey began with a devastating loss - the passing of both his parents at a tender age.
According to Otile, his father passed away first, and then in 2006, when he was in class 5, his mother also left him behind. This left Otile, the youngest of his siblings, to be raised by his grandmother, with occasional assistance from his stepmother.
Speaking to Jalang'o in a candid interview, Otile revealed the unknown details of his parents' separation and subsequent passing. 'They passed away. My dada hatukuwai hata kukutana coz they broke up with my mum. I'm the last born by the way. So when they broke up with my mum, yeye alienda akabase Kisumu me and my mum remained in Mombasa. He went and passed on lakini sikupata nafasi hata ya kumzika. My mum passed away in 2006 so I just grew up with my uncles and my granny and my stepmom.'
Despite the challenges he faced, Otile has grown into a successful artist, known not only in Kenya but also worldwide. His international fans have been instrumental in his rise to fame, and it's clear that he's making his grandmother proud with his achievements.
As Otile continues to make a name for himself in the music industry, it's heartwarming to see him give back to his family and loved ones, providing them with the life he never had while growing up.
Published on June 17, 2020
